Matt Harrison pushes back throwing program

Matt Harrison will not start his throwing program until January, potentially delaying his return as he works his way back from spinal fusion surgery.

Once again Texas Rangers’ starting pitcher Matt Harrison is trying to rehab and work his way back to pitching after an operation on his back. Unfortunately this is not the first time, and once again it is impossible not to root for the guy as he tries to salvage his career.

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For his part, Harrison seems to think that this might be his final shot at getting healthy and staying in the big leagues. As passed along by Calvin Watkins of ESPN Dallas, Harrison said the following:

"“I got only one shot at this,” he said. “I just have to make sure it’s right.”Harrison said moving his throwing sessions into January isn’t a setback, but more of a precautionary move.“It gives me more time to heal,” he said."

Goodness knows that Harrison is operating on a timetable where he and the Rangers need to play the long game. There is no use rushing him back at the risk of having him re-injure himself or have this issue crop up again.

One thing is clear: the Rangers want Matt Harrison to be a meaningful part of their future. Furthermore, they could actually be a team that is poised for a quick turnaround next season with good health. Harrison is just one of a number of examples in that regard. The Rangers will take the time to see that Harrison is hopefully fully recovered as he tries to return and pitch out the remainder of his five-year, $55 million deal.

In just four starts this season, Harrison went 1-1 with a 4.15 ERA. He has made just six starts over the course of the last two seasons due to these back injuries.

Matt Harrison will not start his throwing program until January, potentially delaying his return as he works his way back from spinal fusion surgery.

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